When a patent

expires on a brand-name drug, a generic manufacturer can apply to the

FDA for permission to produce that drug. Generic drugs must meet the same

stringent requirements and inspections for dosage strength, manufacturing

controls and labeling, and must produce the same clinical results as the

brand name medication.

However, since

generic manufacturers don't spend as much for research and development,

clinical testing, advertising, sales or marketing, their products can

be sold at lower prices sometimes as much as 75 percent less. Many familiar

drugs, such as ibuprofen and prednisone, were once brand-name prescription

drugs.

"Generic

formulations have a long track record and have been proven safe and effective,"

said Marissa Schlaifer, R.Ph., M.S., director of Pharmacy Affairs for

the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy in Alexandria, Va. "About 50

percent of all prescriptions now filled are for generic medications."

Ask your doctor if switching to a generic might be appropriate for you.

Or, ask your pharmacist for more information about what generic equivalents

are available for your prescriptions. Generic drugs are not only just

as safe and effective as brand-name drugs, they can help improve the health

of your checkbook, too.

The Academy

of Managed Care Pharmacy is a professional association of pharmacists

who work in managed care organizations. AMCP's vision is improved quality

of life through affordable and accessible medication therapy. Learn more

at: https://www.amcp.org, or call (800) 827-2627.

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